11/5/2012

sweet cravings: deconstruction

We all get cravings from time to time, this is our bodies way of signaling an imbalance. It is important to develop a relationship with your cravings so that you can begin to understand what your body is telling you. Our bodies are incredible sources of intelligence. All day and night they work hard to maintain homeostasis. Cravings have nothing to do with lack of willpower or discipline, they are critical pieces of information and it is up to you to figure out what they mean and act accordingly.

It is important to understand why you crave. Sometimes we are on such restrictive diets or on diets devoid of essential nutrients. Maybe you are exhausted or stressed out. Cravings are messages your body sends in an attempt to correct an imbalance. Earlier this year I was craving sweets a lot. Turns out my protein levels were low. I started consuming legumes daily and within days my cravings went away. Sometimes sweet cravings come from eating too much sugar, processed foods, not getting enough water or emotional difficulty. In order to stop cravings for sweets it is crucial to understand why you are having the craving in the first place.

Cultivating a relationship to your body is essential for lasting health and vitality. We must practice listening to the subtle, and sometimes not so subtle messages our body sends us. As you learn to decipher and respond to your body’s cravings you will create a deep level of balance and wellness.

The next time you have a craving try these tips to respond to your body:

Drink a glass of water.

Eat a healthier version of what you are craving. If you are craving sugar trying eating a piece of fruit or some root vegetables.

Stop and check-in with yourself. Is something out of balance in your life? Do you need to express yourself? What happened just before this craving kicked in?

If you decide to eat what you are craving enjoy it, savor it and notice its effect. This will help you become more aware and free to decide if you really want it next time.